Our most sacred responsibility as a nation, and as veterans is to care for our fellow men and women who have served this nation with honor. The American Legion has long had a "Buddy Check Week," asking our Legionnaires to conduct veteran outreach as part of their daily routine. The American Legion's "Buddy Check" program has been a great tool for membership, and we strongly support legislation that expands this program to VA. 

The American Legion worked with Congress to draft a bill that would direct VA to establish a "Buddy Check Week," provide educational opportunities, materials, and references for veterans to learn how to conduct personal wellness checks, as well as require increased resources for the Veterans Crisis Line to handle any potential increased usage during the designated week. The bill is modeled after the American Legion’s “Buddy Check National Week of Calling” to connect veterans to better ensure that they receive the care they need. 

That text has now been included in the STRONG Veterans Act of 2022, landmark legislation that increases support for veterans mental health programs.  The American Legion proudly supports this legislation, and asks that you contact your Senators and Representative and tell them to cosponsor and support the Buddy Check and the STRONG Veterans Act today!